Best Sleeping Bags

We reviewed sleeping bags across temperature rating accuracy versus real-world performance, insulation type, packed size and weight for backpacking, hood design for heat retention, and zipper quality for cold nights.

Temperature ratings require context. A sleeping bag rated to 20 degrees F is rated for survival at that temperature -- not comfortable sleep. The comfort rating, which is typically 10-15 degrees warmer than the survival rating, is the more useful number for most users. A bag rated comfort at 32 degrees F and survival at 20 degrees F will keep most sleepers comfortable at temperatures above freezing.

Down versus synthetic insulation is the weight and moisture tradeoff. High-fill-power down compresses to a small packed size and weighs less than synthetic at the same warmth rating -- but loses most of its insulation when wet and requires significantly more care. Synthetic insulation retains warmth when wet, dries faster, and tolerates less careful storage. For backpackers in dry climates, down is the right choice. For car campers or wet-weather camping, synthetic is more practical.